It is definitely time to start thinking about Christmas Gifts, particularly if you have children in your family. Planning and buying ahead is the best way to make sure that they get the presents they really want.
Every year, brings a list of must-have gifts and 2018 is no exception. These items tend to sell out super fast. Often, well before Christmas, so, instead of putting together a list of specific toys, I have decided to focus in on the trends instead.
Dinosaurs are still in
Dinosaur themed toys have been popular for a few years now, so I was kind of expecting them to slip off the list completely. But, that has not happened; there are still plenty of T-Rex style toys available.
Unicorns
Another long-term favourite is unicorns. Again, they have been around for a while. This year, look out for hybrid toys, which are best described as unicornish. For example, the Hatchimal Owlicorn, which, as the name indicates, is a cross behind an owl and a unicorn. It sounds weird, but something tells me these cross over unicorn toys are going to appeal to quite a lot of kids. They always love something different and unique.
Jigsaws
It is great to see kids playing with physical toys more again. Jigsaws are great for developing visual skills and dexterity. Quite a few of the larger retailers have included several in their top 100 2018 Christmas toys list, so keep an eye out for them.
Board games
Interestingly, board games are also making the top 100 again. There is everything from simple card games to quizzes and letter games, on the list. If you are not sure which one to buy a games compendium may be the best option. They are very competitively priced.
Paw Patrol
For the younger members of the family, Paw Patrol is very hot, this year. If your kids have already got the actual toys, keep an eye out for merchandised items. A Paw Patrol bag is sure to please a young fan.
Learning toys
Children of all ages are very keen on the new generation of learning toys. Some like the Osmo Genius Kit have to be used alongside an app. But, there are plenty of other options out there that ensure your kids get away from their screens for a bit. Inventor kits are a particularly good example of the type of toy I am talking about.
Make your own kid’s gifts
Right now, crafting is very popular. It always feels good to be able to make something for someone and give it to them. So, if you have not done so before, why not go online and find a couple of kid’s handmade gift ideas and give them a go? You are sure to learn some new skills and will very likely save yourself some money as well. If your children enjoy crafts you could even get them involved in making gifts for other people. You will have fun together and be teaching them the importance of looking after others while doing so.
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Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.
We make gifts for family members each year. We try to make practical gifts, so last year the kids made marbled mugs and coasters. This year we’re going to make seed paper shapes and pour painted plant pots.
Thanks for sharing an amazing Christmas gift idea for 2018. I thought Learning toys are the best gift for a kid. I will surely gift learning toys to my kids.